Rugged SUV to get added width, technology and new in-line six-cylinder engines.

So major is the overhaul, planned for 2017, that Mercedes-Benz insiders say it will in effect be an all-new vehicle.

The big push is to increase the width of the G-Class for greater stability.

But sources also say it will help to accommodate a new front suspension and to liberate greater interior space for new, broader seats both front and rear, while maintaining the tough visual character and iconic military style looks of the existing 35-year-old model.

Further changes are being aimed at the electric architecture of Mercedes-Benz?s traditional SUV, which will be updated to provide a platform for a range of new driver assistant, safety, infotainment and connectivity systems.

The codename for the heavily reworked G-Class remains W463, but the body structure is being extensively reworked. More aluminium and high strength steel is being added and it is being made up to 100mm wider, taking the width of Mercedes-Benz?s original SUV to around 1860mm overall.

The change to the structure is also being made with a view to slashing the kerb weight; a reduction of more than 200kg is being touted by insiders. The current G350 weighsin at a hefty 2570kg.

The G-Class?s new front suspension will use a three- or four-link set-up, while a more modern electro-mechanical steering system is also planned.

The exterior design will retain the right-angled looks of today?s car with a near vertical windscreen. Some inspiration could also be taken from the futuristic Ener-G-Force concept car from the 2012 Los Angeles auto show.

The interior overhaul will focus not only on increasing space but also comfort and quality, with interior fittings from the latest C-Class set to make it into the venerable off-roader.

Technology levels will also be increased, with features such stereo camera technology enabling the inclusion of many of the driver assistant and safety systems seen on the latest S-Class.

The engine range will include the new 3.0-litre, in-line six-cylinder petrol (codenamed M256) and diesel (OM656) units current under development ahead of their debut in the new E-Class due out in 2016.

In the G-Class, a petrol unit with more than 268kW and a diesel producing over 223kW are being touted.

The engines will be paired with Mercedes-Benz?s new nine-speed 9G-Tronic automatic gearbox as standard, resulting in vastly improved economy.

Range-topping AMG variants, which account for over half of all G-class sales worldwide, are set to follow the launch of the standard models.

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The size of your tyre is located on the sidewall of your tyre.It will be similar to the sample below.